Bent Pyramid, Dahshur

Built by Pharaoh Sneferu, the Bent Pyramid dates from about 2600 BC. It was the first pyramid to have been planned as a true pyramid, as opposed to a step pyramid.

The ancient formal name of the Bent Pyramid was either "The Southern Shining Pyramid" or "Sneferu is Shining in the South," depending on the translation.

The Bent Pyramid gets its nickname from its unusual bent angle - the initial 54° angle changes to 43° halfway up. It most likely occurred because the builders realized the initial angle was too steep and adjusted it to avoid collapse. The nearby Red Pyramid, which was built immediately after, has a 43° angle throughout.

The Bent Pyramid is 599 ft square and its original height was 344 ft. It is believed to be the first attempt at creating a pyramid with smooth sides. It was only partially successful, but it was a significant step in pyramid development. Today it is also the only Egyptian pyramid to retain a majority of its original limestone casing, providing the best feel for the original appearance of all pyramids.

In addition to its odd angles, the Bent Pyramid is also unusual in that it has two entrances: as well as the typical north-face entrance it has a west entrance, visible just above the "bend." The Bent Pyramid has a small satellite pyramid of unknown purpose immediately to its south, and an early form of offering temple on its eastern side.

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Map of the Bent Pyramid, Dahshur

Below is a location map and aerial view of the Bent Pyramid. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.